Richard Celiceo, violin
Meet Richard
Richard Celiceo (Violin), 17, is currently a senior at Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in New York City. He began his musical journey in first grade through the Kaufman Music Center outreach program, studying with Samuel Marchan, and is currently a student in The Juilliard School Music Advancement Program (MAP), studying with Kiwon Nahm.
Richard has had the opportunity to participate in several music programs, including the New York Philharmonic Youth Orchestra Initiative, YOLA National, Interlochen Arts Camp (both as part of the World Youth Symphony Orchestra and the one-week violin intensive program), and most recently National Youth Orchestra (NYO2) in 2025. Richard has also performed in masterclasses with Samuel Vargas, Jun Iwasaki, Bella Horvath, Sheryl Staples, Simon Bernardini, and Igor Pikayzen.
In addition to performing, Richard is passionate about expanding access to music education. He is a founding member of his former teacher’s El Sistema-inspired music program, East River Children and Youth Orchestras (ERCAYO), where he mentors and teaches younger students the fundamentals of violin playing. He believes every child deserves the opportunity to experience and learn music, and he hopes to continue using music to inspire, connect, and create real impact and social change.
Outside of music, Richard enjoys spending time with friends, biking, and exploring new places.
Receiving the Award will primarily allow Richard to purchase a new violin. However, the award funds will also pay for consultation lessons as well as support the travel and lodging needs associated with his upcoming college auditions.
